BRIEFING F1: CHINESE GP

A misstep can always be corrected, but a second mistake could complicate everything. With this mindset, many teams—Ferrari above all—are preparing for the Shanghai weekend: a chance to prove that the disappointing performance in Australia was just a stumble and not a concerning trend. The SF-25 has raised some doubts, but if its true potential is higher than what we saw in Melbourne, now is the time to confirm it.

The main goal? A smooth weekend, with no excuses and favorable weather conditions. If after free practice we hear statements about supposedly conservative strategic choices, then the alarm bells would be more than justified.

Winning a championship isn’t just about dominating races—it’s also about avoiding costly mistakes. Ferrari has already taken a wrong step with a questionable strategy that compromised a valuable result. However, the season is long, and one bad weekend doesn’t define an entire campaign. Just think back to 2022, when Ferrari seemed unstoppable after winning in Melbourne, only to lose ground later. To stay in contention, they need consistency and precision in crucial decisions.

Right now, McLaren seems to have the most well-rounded technical package. Their car has proven to be effective in multiple areas, and if Piastri continues to support Norris, the team could quickly solidify its position at the top. The real question is: will the Australian continue playing a supporting role, or will it be an open battle between the two?

Meanwhile, Mercedes and Red Bull aren’t just watching from the sidelines. The Woking-based team is already under scrutiny for alleged advantages in tire management and aerodynamics—accusations coming from teams that have themselves exploited every regulatory gray area in the past. Formula 1 has always been full of controversies and power plays, and the paddock isn’t called a “circus” for nothing.

The Chinese Grand Prix is a chance for many drivers to bounce back. Rookies must prove they belong, while some veterans are looking to reaffirm their worth. Hadjar, for instance, has already received harsh criticism from Helmut Marko—a verdict that could weigh on his future. Alonso and Hamilton face different but equally delicate situations: the former suffered an internal defeat to Stroll, while the latter endured a tough weekend with a Ferrari whose true potential remains an enigma.

And Verstappen? With a Red Bull that’s less dominant than before, the three-time world champion seems more relaxed. Less tension, same speed, and a solid start to the season. If the RB21 returns to last year’s levels, the competition will have plenty to worry about.

Two possible scenarios: either Ferrari proves to be far more competitive than they appeared in Australia, or McLaren confirms they already have a significant advantage. In the first case, the championship remains wide open; in the second, the papaya-colored dominance could start taking shape.

Lastly, a somber note: the passing of Eddie Jordan, founder of the legendary team that left a lasting mark on Formula 1. Motorsport loses a charismatic figure, a symbol of a more spontaneous and fiercely competitive era. Times may change, but hopefully, the passion for racing will remain the same.

© Simone Marchetti Cavalieri